Server and its control method

Abstract

To provide a technology for providing a specific service quickly.SOLUTION: A server includes: a first receiving unit which receives user information indicating a user from a terminal device in a case where predetermined communication related to supplying a device to the user is executed with the terminal device, the device being transported to a predetermined place after the predetermined communication; a first storage control unit which causes a memory to store the user information received from the terminal device and authentication information in association with each other; a notification unit which notifies the user of the authentication information; a second receiving unit which receives, after the device is transported to the predetermined place, when the authentication information given to the user is input to the device, the authentication information from the device; and a migration unit which migrates, when receiving the authentication information from the device, the state of the server from a first state in which the user is not provided with a specific service that uses the user information to a second state in which the user is provided with the specific service that uses the user information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0004] , , , ,

[0005] , , , ,

[0001] This specification discloses a technology related to a server that stores user information used in a specific service.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an information management server that provides a service for sending an ink cartridge of a printer. To receive the provision of the service, a user operates a terminal device to log in to the information management server and selects a code display button displayed on the terminal device. As a result, a PIN code acquired from the information management server is displayed on the terminal device. Subsequently, the user inputs the PIN code into the printer. The printer transmits the PIN code input by the user to the information management server. The information management server starts providing the service in response to successful authentication of the PIN code received from the printer.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the above technology, a PIN code is not issued unless the user selects the code display button of the terminal device. For example, even if a printer is installed, if the user forgets to select the code display button, the provision of the service is not started. This specification provides a technology for promptly providing a specific service.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The server disclosed herein includes memory, a communication interface for performing communication with the outside, and a first receiving unit that receives user information from a terminal device when a predetermined communication relating to the provision of a device to a user is performed with the terminal device via the communication interface, wherein the device is transported to a predetermined location after the predetermined communication, and the user information is used in a specific service relating to the device, and the first receiving unit and, when the user information is received from the terminal device, stores the user information received from the terminal device and authentication information in association in the memory. The system includes a memory control unit, a notification unit that notifies the user of the authentication information when the authentication information is stored in the memory, a second receiving unit that receives the authentication information from the device via the communication interface when the authentication information notified to the user is input to the device after the device has been transported to the predetermined location, and a transition unit that, when the authentication information is received from the device, transitions the state of the server from a first state in which the specific service using the user information is not provided to the user to a second state in which the specific service using the user information is provided to the user.

[0006] In this configuration, authentication information is notified to the user when predetermined communication regarding the provision of the device to the user is performed with the terminal device. Then, after the device is delivered to the designated location, the user can receive a specific service by entering the authentication information into the device. In other words, authentication information is notified to the user in response to the provision of the device to the user. After the device is delivered to the designated location, the user does not need to request the notification of authentication information from the server. Specific services can be provided quickly.

[0007] The control method for implementing the above-mentioned server, the computer program for implementing the above-mentioned server, and the computer-readable recording medium for storing the computer program are all novel and useful. Furthermore, the communication system including the above-mentioned server, terminal equipment, and devices is also novel and useful. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] The configuration of the communication system according to the first embodiment is shown. [Figure 2] The block diagrams for the service server and management server are shown. [Figure 3] This diagram shows the sequence of steps and screen transitions involved in purchasing an MFP (Multifunction Printer) through online shopping. [Figure 4] The sequence diagram following Figure 3 is shown. [Figure 5] This diagram shows the sequence of processes performed after the MFP is transported to its designated location. [Figure 6] The sequence diagram following Figure 5 is shown. [Figure 7] The configuration of the communication system according to the second embodiment is shown. [Figure 8] This diagram shows the sequence of steps and screen transitions involved in purchasing an MFP (Multifunction Printer) through online shopping. [Figure 9] The sequence diagram following Figure 8 is shown. [Figure 10] The sequence diagram following Figure 9 is shown. [Figure 11] In the third embodiment, the sequence diagram and screen transitions for the process of purchasing an MFP at a store are shown. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] (First embodiment) (Configuration of communication system 2; Figure 1) As shown in Figure 1, the communication system 2 comprises a service server 10, a management server 100, and user terminals 200. User terminals 200 are terminal devices such as notebook PCs, laptop PCs, tablet terminals, and smartphones. The service server 10, the management server 100, and user terminals 200 are connected to the Internet 6. Each device 10, 100, and 200 can communicate with other devices on the Internet 6 (for example, the service server 10) via the Internet 6. Hereafter, "service server" will be referred to as "SP server".

[0010] SP Server 10 provides various services related to multifunction printers, such as online shopping services for multifunction printers and shipping services for sending consumables for multifunction printers to users. A multifunction printer (hereinafter referred to as "MFP") is a device with multiple functions, such as printing and scanning functions. Consumables are, for example, colorant cartridges that can be installed in an MFP. Colorant cartridges are, for example, toner cartridges and ink cartridges. Management Server 100 collects and manages information on multifunction printers that are the subject of the shipping service. SP Server 10 and Management Server 100 are installed, for example, by the MFP vendor. However, either SP Server 10 or Management Server 100 may be installed by a vendor other than the MFP vendor.

[0011] In this embodiment, the user accesses the SP server 10 by operating the user terminal 200. The user then purchases an MFP using the online shopping service provided by the SP server 10. Furthermore, the user receives consumables for the MFP using the shipping service provided by the SP server 10.

[0012] (Configuration of SP Server 10; Figure 2) The SP server 10 includes a network interface 12 and a control unit 30. Each of the units 12 and 30 is connected to a bus line (reference numeral omitted). Hereinafter, the interface will be referred to as "I / F". The network I / F 12 is an I / F for executing communication via the Internet 6 and is connected to the Internet 6.

[0013] The control unit 30 includes a CPU 32 and a memory 34. The CPU 32 executes various processes according to a program 40 stored in the memory 34. The memory 34 is composed of a volatile memory, a non-volatile memory, etc. The memory 34 stores a service table 42 in addition to the above program 40.

[0014] The service table 42 is a table that stores information for the SP server 10 to provide various services. The service table 42 stores account information, personal information, payment information, cartridge name, and management identifier for each of a plurality of users. The account information is information indicating the user's account (i.e., account name and password). The personal information is the user's name, address, email address, etc. The payment information is information used for settlement, for example, a credit card number, etc. The cartridge name is the model name of the toner cartridge shipped by the shipping service. The management identifier is an identifier for identifying the MFP that is the target of the shipping service and is generated by the management server 100.

[0015] (Configuration of the management server 100; FIG. 2) The management server 100 includes a network I / F 112 and a control unit 130. Each of the units 112 and 130 is connected to a bus line (reference numeral omitted), and the network I / F 112 is connected to the Internet 6.

[0016] The control unit 130 includes a CPU 132 and a memory 134. The CPU 132 executes various processes according to a program 140 stored in the memory 134. The memory 134 stores a management table 142 in addition to the above-described program 140.

[0017] The management table 142 is a table that stores information regarding the MFPs that are the targets of the shipping service. The management table 142 stores, for each of a plurality of MFPs, a management identifier, a serial number, device information, service information, an activation key, an access token, and remaining amount information. The serial number is an identification number assigned at the time of manufacturing the MFP. The device information is the model name of the MFP, information indicating the specifications of the MFP (e.g., the version of firmware), and the like. The service information is information indicating the services received by the user of the MFP. The access token is information for the management server 100 to authenticate the MFP. The remaining amount information indicates the history of the remaining amount of the toner stored in the toner cartridge currently installed in the MFP. The activation key will be described later.

[0018] (Process of purchasing an MFP through online shopping; FIGS. 3 and 4) Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, a process of purchasing an MFP with the model name "m1" through online shopping will be described. In the following, for the processes executed by each CPU of each device (e.g., the CPU 32 of the SP server 10, etc.) according to each program (e.g., the program 40, etc.), from the viewpoint of ease of understanding, instead of describing each CPU as the main body, each device (e.g., the SP server 10, etc.) will be described as the main body. Also, in the following, each device 10, 100, 200 executes communication with other devices via the Internet 6. In the following, unless otherwise specified, the description "via the Internet 6" will be omitted. Also, each device 10, 100 executes communication with other devices via each network I / F 112. In the following, unless otherwise specified, the description "via the network I / F 12 (or the network I / F 112)" will be omitted.

[0019] On T10, the user operates the user terminal 200 to perform a purchase operation to buy an MFP with model name "m1" (hereinafter referred to as MFP "m1"). The purchase operation is, for example, an operation in which the user terminal 200 selects a button on a screen corresponding to the screen data received from the SP server 10. The screen is displayed, for example, by the browser program on the user terminal 200.

[0020] When the user terminal 200 receives a purchase operation from the user at T10, it sends a purchase screen request to the SP server 10 at T12. The purchase screen request is a signal requesting purchase screen data corresponding to purchase screen SC1, which includes a purchase button BT1 for receiving instructions to purchase the MFP "m1". The purchase screen request is, for example, an HTTP command. As a result, the user terminal 200 receives the purchase screen data from the SP server 10 at T14 and displays purchase screen SC1 at T16.

[0021] In this case, the user selects the purchase button BT1 on the purchase screen SC1. This displays the screens SC2 to SC7 described later in sequence. Similarly to the purchase screen SC1, the SP server 10 sends the corresponding screen data to the user terminal 200, and the screens SC2 to SC7 are then displayed on the user terminal 200.

[0022] In this embodiment, it is possible to simultaneously purchase the MFP "m1" (i.e., provide the MFP "m1" to the user) and apply for a shipping service for colorant cartridges that can be installed in the MFP "m1" in each of the screens SC2 to SC7 described later. This improves user convenience.

[0023] When the purchase button BT1 on the purchase screen SC1 is selected, the user terminal 200 displays the inquiry screen SC2. The inquiry screen SC2 includes a message asking the user whether or not to apply for the shipping service, an OK button BT2 to receive instructions to apply for the shipping service, and a Cancel button BT3 to receive instructions not to apply for the shipping service.

[0024] In this case, the user selects the OK button BT2 on the inquiry screen SC2. When the OK button BT2 is selected, the user terminal 200 displays the account screen SC3. If the user selects the Cancel button BT3 on the inquiry screen SC2, screens SC3, SC4, SC6, and SC7 (described later) will be displayed, but the selection screen SC5 (described later) will not be displayed. In other words, payment and shipping for the MFP "m1" will be executed, but the shipping service will not be applied for.

[0025] The account screen SC3 includes input fields for entering account information and a registration button BT4 for receiving instructions to register new account information. In this case, the service table of the SP server 10 does not store the user's account information. The user selects the registration button BT4 on the account screen SC3. When the registration button BT4 is selected, the user terminal 200 displays the first information input screen SC4.

[0026] The first information input screen SC4 includes input fields for receiving the user's personal information (e.g., name, address, email address) and password. The email address entered on the first information input screen SC4 will also be used as the user's account name.

[0027] In this case, the user enters personal information PS1 (see Figure 2) and the password for account information AC1 (see Figure 2) into the first information input screen SC4. The user terminal 200 sends the information entered into the first information input screen SC4 (i.e., personal information PS1 and password) to the SP server 10 and then displays the selection screen SC5.

[0028] The selection screen SC5 includes a selection field for choosing the colorant cartridge to be shipped via the shipping service from among several types of colorant cartridges that can be installed in the MFP "m1".

[0029] In this case, the user selects the colorant cartridge named "CT1" from among several types of colorant cartridges on the selection screen SC5. The user terminal 200 sends the selected cartridge name "CT1" from the selection screen SC5 to the SP server 10 and then displays the second information input screen SC6.

[0030] The second information input screen SC6 includes input fields for entering payment information (e.g., credit card number). In this case, the user enters payment information PM1 (see Figure 2) into the second information input screen SC6. The user terminal 200 sends the payment information PM1 entered into the second information input screen SC6 to the SP server 10 and then displays a confirmation screen SC7.

[0031] The confirmation screen SC7 includes a message confirming the purchase of the MFP "m1" and the application for the shipping service, as well as an OK button. In this case, the user selects the OK button on the confirmation screen SC7. As a result, the user terminal 200 sends an OK notification to the SP server 10 indicating that the OK button has been selected.

[0032] When the SP server 10 receives an OK notification from the user terminal 200 at T20 in Figure 4, at T22, it registers (stores) the information entered on screens SC4 to SC6 in Figure 3 in the service table 42. As a result, account information AC1, personal information PS1, payment information PM1, and cartridge name CT1 are stored in the service table 42.

[0033] If account information is entered into the input field in the account screen SC3 shown in Figure 3, the user terminal 200 sends the entered account information to the SP server 10, and the SP server 10 authenticates the account information received from the user terminal 200. If the authentication of the account information is successful, the SP server 10 stores the cartridge name "CT1" selected on the selection screen SC5 in the service table 42, associating it with the authenticated account information.

[0034] In the subsequent T24, SP server 10 sends a generation request to management server 100 requesting the generation of a management identifier. Upon receiving the generation request from SP server 10 in T24, management server 100 generates a new management identifier MI1 in T30. Furthermore, management server 100 generates an activation key AK1 in T32. Activation key AK1 is a code used to authenticate the start of the shipping service for which the application was completed on confirmation screen SC7 in Figure 3.

[0035] In T34, the management server 100 sends the management identifier MI1 generated in T30 and the activation key AK1 generated in T32 to the SP server 10.

[0036] When SP server 10 receives the management identifier MI1 and activation key AK1 from management server 100 at T34, it sends a response to the OK notification at T22 to user terminal 200 at T36.

[0037] When user terminal 200 receives a response from SP server 10 at T36, it displays guidance screen SC8 at T38. Guidance screen SC8 includes a message indicating that an activation key will be sent to the user separately from the MFP "m1". This allows the user to know that an activation key will be sent.

[0038] Furthermore, in T60, the SP server 10 stores the management identifier MI1 received in T34 in the service table 42, associating it with the account information AC1 stored in T22. Then, in T70, the SP server 10 executes the shipment and payment of the purchased product (i.e., MFP "m1"). Specifically, the SP server 10 executes the MFP payment processing and the MFP shipment processing. The MFP payment processing is the process of settling the MFP "m1" using the payment information PM1 entered in the second information input screen SC6. If account information is entered in the input field in the account screen SC3, the MFP payment processing is executed using the payment information stored as associated with the entered account information. The MFP shipment processing is the process of shipping the MFP "m1" to the destination indicated by the personal information PS1 entered in the first information input screen SC4. If account information is entered in the input field in the account screen SC3, the MFP shipment processing is executed using the personal information stored as associated with the entered account information. The MFP shipping process includes, for example, notifying warehouse workers at the warehouse where MFP "m1" is stored. This then results in MFP "m1" being shipped to the user.

[0039] In T72, the SP server 10 sends a registration request to the management server 100 requesting the registration of various types of information. This registration request includes a management identifier MI1, the serial number SN1 of the MFP "m1" shipped in T70, and service information SI1 indicating the shipping service provided by the SP server 10. The serial number SN1 is entered into the SP server 10, for example, by the worker who shipped the MFP "m1".

[0040] When the management server 100 receives a registration request from the SP server 10 in T72, in T74, it registers the other information in the registration request (i.e., serial number SN1 and service information SI1) in the management table 142, associating it with the management identifier MI1 in the registration request. At this point, device information, access token, and remaining capacity information are not stored in the management table 142 as associated with the management identifier MI1. In T76, the management server 100 sends a completion notification to the SP server 10 indicating that the registration of the information in the registration request has been completed.

[0041] When SP server 10 receives a completion notification from management server 100 at T76, it sends a key notification email at T80 to notify the user of the activation key AK1. Specifically, SP server 10 generates a key notification email with the activation key AK1 received from management server 100 at T34 as the body of the email. SP server 10 retrieves the email address from personal information PS1, which is stored in association with management identifier MI1, from service table 42. Then, SP server 10 sends the generated key notification email to the retrieved email address. As a result, at T80, the key notification email is sent to user terminal 200.

[0042] When user terminal 200 receives a key notification email from SP server 10 at T80, it displays the key notification email at T82. This allows the user to learn the activation key AK1.

[0043] (Processing performed after the MFP is delivered to a specific location; Figures 5 and 6) Referring to Figures 5 and 6, the process that is executed after the MFP "m1", which was shipped by T70 in Figure 4, is transported to a designated location (for example, the user's workplace) will be explained. The process in Figure 5 is executed after the process in Figure 4.

[0044] First, the user unpacks the MFP "m1". The user places the MFP "m1" in the designated location. Then, the user turns on the MFP "m1" using T100. Furthermore, the user performs network connection operations on T102 to connect the MFP "m1" to the Internet 6. Network connection operations include, for example, WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This connects the MFP "m1" to the Internet 6.

[0045] When the MFP "m1" connects to the Internet 6, it displays the key confirmation screen SC10 at T104. The key confirmation screen SC10 includes a message asking the user whether they have an activation key, and includes a YES button and a NO button. In this case, the user knows the activation key AK1 at T82 in Figure 4, so they select the YES button on the key confirmation screen SC10. If the NO button on the key confirmation screen SC10 is selected, the display of the key input screen SC12 (described later) and the processing from T106 onwards are skipped, and the processing in Figure 5 ends.

[0046] The MFP "m1" displays the key input screen SC12 when the YES button is selected on the key confirmation screen SC10. The key input screen SC12 includes an input field for entering the activation key. In this case, the MFP "m1" receives the activation key AK1 from the user on the key input screen SC12.

[0047] When MFP "m1" receives the activation key AK1 on the key input screen SC12, T106 sends an authentication request to the management server 100 requesting authentication of the activation key. The authentication request includes the activation key AK1 entered on the key input screen SC12, the serial number SN1 of MFP "m1", and the device information DI1 of MFP "m1".

[0048] When the management server 100 receives an authentication request from the MFP "m1" at T106, it authenticates the activation key in the authentication request at T110. Specifically, the management server 100 determines whether the activation key in the authentication request matches the activation key AK1 stored in the management table 142. In this case, the management server 100 determines that the activation key AK1 in the authentication request matches the activation key AK1 in the management table 142, and the authentication of the activation key in the authentication request is successful. If the management server 100 determines that the activation key in the authentication request does not match the activation key AK1 in the management table 142, the authentication of the activation key in the authentication request fails.

[0049] If the management server 100 determines that the authentication of the activation key in the authentication request was successful (YES at T110), it proceeds to T112. On the other hand, if the management server 100 determines that the authentication of the activation key in the authentication request failed, it skips the processing from T112 onward and terminates the process shown in Figure 5. At T112, the management server 100 identifies the serial number stored in association with the activation key AK1 in the authentication request from the management table 142.

[0050] In T114, the management server 100 determines whether the serial number in the authentication request of T106 matches the serial number identified in T112. In this case, the MFP "m1" into which the activation key AK1 is entered is the same as the MFP "m1" sent in T70 in Figure 4. In this case, the serial number SN1 in the authentication request of T106 matches the serial number SN1 identified in T112. The management server 100 determines that both serial numbers match (YES in T114) and proceeds to the process in Figure 6. On the other hand, if the MFP "m1" into which the activation key AK1 is entered is not the same as the MFP "m1" sent in T70 in Figure 4, then their serial numbers will not match. For example, if a third party can illegally obtain the activation key AK1, the activation key AK1 may be entered into a different MFP than the MFP "m1" sent in T70 in Figure 4. If the management server 100 determines that the serial numbers of both devices do not match (NO in T114), it skips the process in Figure 6 and terminates the process in Figure 5. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent a third party who has illegally obtained the activation key AK1 from illegally using the shipping service that should be provided to the user.

[0051] In Figure 6, at T120, the management server 100 generates an access token AT1. Then, at T122, the management server 100 stores the access token AT1 generated at T120 and the device information DI1 included in the authentication request received at T106 in Figure 5 in the management table 142, associating them with the activate key AK1 included in the authentication request.

[0052] At T124, the management server 100 sends the access token AT1 generated at T120 to the MFP "m1". At T126, the MFP "m1" uses the access token AT1 received at T124 to establish an XMPP (Extensible Messaging and Presence Protocol) connection with the management server 100. The XMPP connection is a so-called always-on connection and remains established until the power to the MFP "m1" is cut off. By using the XMPP connection, the management server 100 can send requests to the MFP "m1" across the firewall of the LAN (not shown in the diagram) to which the MFP "m1" belongs, even without receiving a request from the MFP "m1". Note that the mechanism for sending requests from the management server 100 to the MFP "m1" may be other than the XMPP connection. For example, an HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) connection may be established between the management server 100 and the MFP "m1".

[0053] Furthermore, at T128, the management server 100 sends an establishment notification to the SP server 10 indicating that the XMPP connection has been established. The establishment notification includes the management identifier MI1. When the SP server 10 receives the establishment notification from the management server 100 at T128, it activates the shipping service at T130. Specifically, the SP server 10 starts providing the shipping service for the colorant cartridge indicated by the cartridge name CT1, which is stored in association with the management identifier MI1 included in the establishment notification. For example, the state of the SP server 10 changes from a state where payment using the payment information PM1, which is stored in association with the management identifier MI1 in the shipping service, is not possible to a state where such payment is possible. For example, if the shipping service is a service where a fixed fee is paid periodically, the SP server 10 starts counting the period.

[0054] Furthermore, in T140, the management server 100 uses the XMPP connection established in T126 to send a Subscribe request to MFP "m1" requesting that it repeatedly send the current remaining capacity of MFP "m1" to the management server 100. As a result, in T142, MFP "m1" repeatedly sends the current remaining capacity to the management server 100.

[0055] When the management server 100 receives the current remaining amount from the MFP "m1" at T142, it stores the received remaining amount as remaining amount information in the management table 142. The management server 100 then determines whether the latest remaining amount among the remaining amount information stored in the management table 142 is less than a predetermined threshold. In this case, at T144, the management server 100 determines that the latest remaining amount is less than the predetermined threshold. In this case, at T146, the management server 100 sends a dispatch request to the SP server 10 requesting the dispatch of the colorant cartridge. The dispatch request includes the management identifier MI1. Note that the decision to send the dispatch request is not limited to a decision based on whether the latest remaining amount is less than a predetermined threshold, but may also be based on, for example, the amount of change in the remaining amount indicated by the remaining amount information.

[0056] When SP server 10 receives a shipping request from management server 100 at T146, it executes the colorant cartridge shipping process at T148. The colorant cartridge shipping process is the process of shipping the colorant cartridge, indicated by cartridge name CT1, which is stored in association with management identifier MI1, to the destination indicated by personal information PS1, which is stored in association with management identifier MI1 included in the shipping request. The colorant cartridge shipping process includes, for example, notifying warehouse workers who store the colorant cartridges. The personal information PS1 used in the colorant cartridge shipping process is the same as the personal information PS1 used in the MFP shipping process in online shopping for MFP "m1". In other words, in this case, it is not necessary to ask the user to input personal information used in the shipping service separately from online shopping for MFP "m1". User convenience is improved.

[0057] (Effects of this embodiment) In this embodiment, when the purchase button BT1 is selected on the purchase screen SC1, not only is the MFP "m1" purchased, but the shipping service application is also executed (SC2, SC5, etc. in Figure 3). Then, when the OK button is selected on the confirmation screen SC7, the SP server 10 sends a key notification email containing the activation key AK1 to the user terminal 200 (T80 in Figure 4). After the MFP "m1" is delivered to the designated location, the user can receive the shipping service by entering the activation key AK1 into the MFP "m1" (SC12 in Figure 5). In other words, the user is notified of the activation key AK1 for the shipping service in accordance with the purchase of the MFP "m1". The user does not need to request the activation key AK1 from the SP server 10 after the MFP "m1" has been installed at the designated location. The shipping service can be provided quickly.

[0058] In this embodiment, the SP server 10 sends a key notification email to the email address included in the personal information PS1 entered during online shopping for the MFP "m1" (T80 in Figure 4). The activation key AK1 can be quickly notified to the user in response to online shopping for the MFP "m1".

[0059] Furthermore, a comparative example is envisioned in which a sheet of paper containing the activation key AK1 is packaged together with the MFP "m1". In this comparative example, the timing of the activation key AK1 being notified to the user and the timing of the MFP "m1" being delivered to the user are the same. In this comparative example, in the unforeseen event that the MFP "m1" is acquired by a third party other than the user, there is a possibility that the activation key AK1 could be illegally obtained by the third party. That is, the third party could illegally use the shipping service for the MFP "m1". In contrast, in this embodiment, the activation key AK1 is notified to the user by a key notification email, and the timing of the activation key AK1 being notified to the user and the timing of the MFP "m1" being delivered to the user are different. For example, even if an unforeseen event occurs in which the MFP "m1" is acquired by a third party, it is possible to suppress the illegal acquisition of the activation key AK1 by the third party. Note that the configuration of the above comparative example may be adopted in the modified example.

[0060] (Modified version of the first embodiment) In the first embodiment described above, at T72 in Figure 4, the serial number SN1 is included in the registration request, and at T74, the serial number SN1 is stored in the management table 142. Alternatively, the serial number SN1 does not have to be included in the registration request, and the serial number SN1 may be stored in the management table 142 at the timing of T122 in Figure 6, rather than at the timing of T74. In this modified example, the processes at T112 and T114 in Figure 5 do not have to be executed, and at T122 in Figure 6, the serial number SN1 included in the authentication request at T106 in Figure 5 may be stored in the management table 142. In the first embodiment, the serial number SN1 included in the registration request is entered into the SP server 10 by, for example, the worker who ships the MFP "m1". In contrast, in this modified example, the operation to enter the serial number SN1 is not performed. Although the processes at T112 and T114 in Figure 5 are not executed, the operation to enter the serial number SN1 can be omitted.

[0061] (Correspondence) SP Server 10 and Management Server 100 are examples of "servers". Memory 34 and Memory 134 are examples of "memory". Network I / F 12 and Network I / F 112 are examples of "communication interfaces". MFP and User Terminal 200 are examples of "devices" and "terminal equipment", respectively. When the registration button BT4 is selected on the account screen SC3 in Figure 3, personal information PS1 is an example of "user information", and the first information input screen SC4 and the second information input screen SC6 are examples of "input screens". When account information is entered on the account screen SC3 in Figure 3, the entered account information is an example of "user information", and account screen SC3 is an example of an "input screen". Colorant cartridge and shipping service are examples of "consumables" and "specific services", respectively. Activate key AK1 is an example of "authentication information". Communication T14 in Figure 3 is an example of "predetermined communication". Serial number SN1 is an example of "identification information". Purchase screen SC1 in Figure 3 is an example of an "instruction acceptance screen". The state in Figure 6 where the processes T120-T130 (establishing the XMPP connection, enabling the service, etc.) have not been executed, and the state where the processes T120-T130 have been completed, are examples of the "first state" and the "second state," respectively.

[0062] Receiving information entered on the first information input screen SC4 and the second information input screen SC6 in Figure 3, or receiving account information entered on the account screen SC3, is an example of processing implemented by the "first receiving unit". T22, T60, and T74 in Figure 4 are examples of processing implemented by the "first memory control unit". T80 in Figure 4 and T106 in Figure 5 are examples of processing implemented by the "notification unit" and the "second receiving unit", respectively. The processing of T120 to T130 in Figure 6 is an example of processing implemented by the "transition unit".

[0063] (Second example) (Configuration of communication system 4; Figure 4) The communication system 4 of this embodiment includes an external server 500 in addition to the devices 10, 100, and 200 of the communication system 2 of the first embodiment. In this embodiment, the SP server 10 provides online shopping services for MFPs but does not provide colorant cartridge shipping services. On the other hand, the external server 500 provides colorant cartridge shipping services. The external server 500 is installed by a different vendor than the vendor that installs the SP server 10 and the management server 100.

[0064] (Configuration of service table 42; Figure 7) The service table 42 in this embodiment is the same as the service table 42 in the first embodiment, except that it stores an external token instead of a cartridge name. The external token is used for communication between the SP server 10 and the external server 500. The external token is generated by the external server 500.

[0065] (Configuration of external table 542; Figure 7) External server 500 stores external table 542. External table 542 is a table that stores information for external server 500 to provide shipping services. External table 542 stores login information, personal information, payment information, cartridge name, and external token for each of multiple users. Login information is the information that a user uses to log in to external server 500 and indicates the user's account on external server 500. Login information is, for example, the account name and password.

[0066] (Process of purchasing an MFP through online shopping; Figures 8, 9, and 10) T210~T216 are the same as T10~T16 in Figure 3. In this embodiment, when the purchase button BT1 in the purchase screen SC1 is selected, screens SC3, SC4, SC6, SC21, and SC2 are displayed in sequence. The confirmation screen SC21 includes a message confirming the purchase of the MFP "m1" and an OK button. Unlike the confirmation screen SC7 in the first embodiment, the confirmation screen SC21 does not include a message confirming the details of the shipping service application. In this embodiment, when the OK button in the confirmation screen SC21 is selected, the user terminal 200 displays the inquiry screen SC2, which asks whether the user has applied for the shipping service. In this case, the user selects the OK button BT2 in the inquiry screen SC2. As a result, the user terminal 200 sends an application notification to the SP server 10 indicating that the OK button has been selected.

[0067] When the SP server 10 receives an application notification from the user terminal 200 at T220 in Figure 9, it registers the information entered in SC4 and SC6 in Figure 8 into the service table 42 at T222. As a result, account information AC1, personal information PS1, and payment information PM1 are stored in the service table 42.

[0068] T224-T234 are the same as T24-T34 in Figure 4. At T236, SP server 10 sends a redirect request to user terminal 200 requesting redirection to external server 500. The redirect request includes the URL of external server 500.

[0069] When user terminal 200 receives a redirect request from SP server 10 at T236, it sends a login screen request to external server 500 at T238 using the URL of external server 500 included in the redirect request. Subsequently, user terminal 200 receives login screen data from external server 500 at T240. The login screen data is the data corresponding to the login screen SC23 for logging into external server 500.

[0070] In T242, the user terminal 200 displays the login screen SC23 corresponding to the login screen data received by T240. The login screen SC23 includes input fields for entering login information. In this case, the user's login information LI1, personal information PS2, and payment information PM2 (see Figure 7) are pre-stored in the external table 542. In this case, the user enters the login information LI1 into the login screen SC23, and a login session is established between the user terminal 200 and the external server 500. The user terminal 200 then uses the login session to receive screen data corresponding to the selection screen SC24 from the external server 500 and displays the selection screen SC24. The selection screen SC24 is the same as the selection screen SC5 in Figure 3.

[0071] In T244, the user selects the colorant cartridge named "CT1" from among several types of colorant cartridges on the selection screen SC24. In T246, the user decides to use the personal information PS2 and payment information PM2, which are stored in the external table 542 in association with the login information LI1.

[0072] When user terminal 200 receives a decision at T246 to use personal information PS2 and payment information PM2, it displays confirmation screen SC25 at T248. Confirmation screen SC25 includes a message confirming the details of the shipping service application and an OK button. In this case, the user selects the OK button on confirmation screen SC25. As a result, user terminal 200 sends an OK notification to the external server 500 indicating that the OK button has been selected.

[0073] When the external server 500 receives an OK notification from the user terminal 200 at T250 in Figure 10, it sends a redirect request to the user terminal 200 at T252, which includes the external token ET1 and the URL of the SP server 10. When the user terminal 200 receives the redirect request from the external server 500 at T252, it sends the external token ET1 to the SP server 10 at T254, using the URL of the SP server 10 included in the redirect request.

[0074] When SP server 10 receives the external token ET1 from user terminal 200 at T254, at T260, it stores the management identifier MI1 received at T234 and the external token ET1 received at T254 in service table 42, associating them with the account information AC1 stored at T222. T270 to T276 are the same as T70 to T76 in Figure 4. At T278, SP server 10 sends a completion notification to user terminal 200 indicating that the registration at T274 is complete. T280 is the same as T38 in Figure 4. Also, T290 and T292 are the same as T80 and T82 in Figure 4.

[0075] In this embodiment, the external server 500 that provides shipping services and the SP server 10 that provides online shopping services for the MFP are separate entities. Even in this case, the activation key AK1 is notified to the user via a key notification email, regardless of whether the purchased goods are being transported during online shopping. The user does not need to request the activation key AK1 from the SP server 10 after installing the MFP "m1" in the designated location. Shipping services can be provided promptly.

[0076] (Third embodiment) (Process of purchasing an MFP at a store; Figure 11) In this embodiment, the user purchases the MFP "m1" at a store rather than through online shopping. In this embodiment, the user may transport the MFP "m1" to a designated location themselves, or they may request the store to transport the MFP "m1". The configuration of the communication system in this embodiment is the same as the communication system 2 of the first embodiment, except that a store terminal 600 is provided instead of a user terminal 200. The store terminal 600 is a terminal device installed in the store and is available for use by store employees and users.

[0077] The process shown in Figure 11 is executed after the payment for the MFP "m1" is completed at the store. The store employee proposes to the user that they sign up for the shipping service. In T300, the store employee performs the application operation on the store terminal 600 to sign up for the shipping service.

[0078] When the store terminal 600 receives an application operation from an employee at T300, it sends an inquiry screen request to the SP server 10 at T302. The inquiry screen request is a signal requesting inquiry screen data corresponding to inquiry screen SC2, which inquires whether or not an application for shipping service has been made. As a result, the store terminal 600 receives the inquiry screen data from the SP server 10 at T304 and displays inquiry screen SC2 at T306. In this embodiment as in the first embodiment, screens SC3 to SC5 are displayed after inquiry screen SC2. Screens SC2 to SC5, and screen SC30, which will be described later, are operated by the user.

[0079] In this embodiment, when a colorant cartridge with the cartridge name "CT1" is selected on the selection screen SC5, the store terminal 600 displays a confirmation screen SC30. The confirmation screen SC30 includes a message confirming the details of the shipping service application and an OK button. When the OK button on the confirmation screen SC30 is selected, the store terminal 600 displays a serial input screen SC32. The serial input screen SC32 includes an input field for entering the serial number of the purchased product. The serial input screen SC32 is operated by an employee. The employee enters the serial number SN1 of the MFP "m1", which is the purchased product, into the serial input screen SC32. As a result, the store terminal 600 sends the entered serial number SN1 to the SP server 10.

[0080] In this embodiment, following Figure 11, the processes shown in Figures 4 to 6 are executed, similar to the first embodiment. However, in this embodiment, the serial number included in the registration request of T72 in Figure 4 is the serial number SN1 entered via the serial input screen SC32.

[0081] In this embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the user does not need to request the activation key AK1 from the SP server 10 after installing the MFP "m1" in a designated location. The shipping service can be provided promptly. In addition, in this embodiment, in the process shown in Figure 11, it is possible to apply for the shipping service of a colorant cartridge that can be installed in the MFP "m1" at the same time as purchasing the MFP "m1" at the store. There is no need to apply for the shipping service at a different time than purchasing the MFP "m1". This improves user convenience. In this embodiment, the store terminal 600 is an example of a "terminal device".

[0082] Although specific examples of the present invention have been described in detail above, these are merely illustrative and do not limit the scope of the claims. The technology described in the claims includes various modifications and changes to the specific examples illustrated above. Modifications of the above embodiments are listed below.

[0083] (Modification 1) In each of the above embodiments, the MFP "m1" is purchased by the user. Alternatively, the MFP "m1" may be leased to the user by the user paying a lease fee. In this case, information regarding the lease of the MFP "m1" (e.g., personal information, payment information) is communicated between the user terminal 200 and the SP server 10. In this modification, the above-mentioned communication regarding the lease is an example of "predetermined communication regarding provision to the user".

[0084] (Modification 2) The SP server 10 and the management server 100 may be integrated into a single server. In this modification, the single server described above is an example of a "server".

[0085] (Variation 3) The "specific service" is not limited to shipping services, but may also be, for example, a service that remotely operates the MFP via a server on the Internet 6 (e.g., remote printing).

[0086] (Modification 4) The means for "notifying the user of the authentication information" is not limited to key notification email (i.e., email), but may also be, for example, SMS, SNS direct mail, postal mail, etc.

[0087] (Modification 5) In the third embodiment described above, the activation key AK1 is sent to the user via email. Alternatively, a printed copy of the activation key AK1 may be handed to the user by a store employee.

[0088] (Modification 6) The activation key AK1 may be sent to the user using information different from the personal information PS1 received from the user terminal 200 (for example, an email address pre-stored in the SP server 10).

[0089] (Variation 7) "Consumables" are not limited to colorant cartridges, but may also include, for example, printing media (e.g., paper), replacement parts other than colorant cartridges for MFPs, etc.

[0090] (Modification 8) The term "device" is not limited to MFPs, but may also refer to, for example, printers, scanners, fax machines, PCs, etc.

[0091] (Modification 9) In each of the above embodiments, the processes shown in Figures 3 to 6 and Figures 8 to 11 are implemented by software (e.g., programs 40 and 140), but at least one of these processes may be implemented by hardware such as a logic circuit.

[0092] Furthermore, the technical elements described herein or in the drawings demonstrate technical usefulness individually or in various combinations, and are not limited to the combinations described in the claims at the time of filing. In addition, the technologies illustrated herein or in the drawings achieve multiple objectives simultaneously, and achieving even one of these objectives constitutes technical usefulness in itself. The following are the features of the technology disclosed herein. (Item 1) It is a server, Memory and A communication interface for performing communication with the outside world, A first receiving unit that receives user information indicating the user from a terminal device when a predetermined communication relating to the provision of a device to a user is performed with the terminal device via the communication interface, wherein the device is transported to a predetermined location after the predetermined communication, and the user information is used in a specific service relating to the device, and the first receiving unit When user information is received from the terminal device, a first storage control unit stores the user information received from the terminal device and authentication information in association with each other in the memory. When the authentication information is stored in the memory, a notification unit notifies the user of the authentication information, After the device has been transported to the predetermined location, when the authentication information notified to the user is input to the device, a second receiving unit receives the authentication information from the device via the communication interface. A transition unit that, when the authentication information is received from the device, transitions the state of the server from a first state in which the specific service using the user information is not provided to the user to a second state in which the specific service using the user information is provided to the user, A server equipped with the following features. (Item 2) When the first memory control unit receives the user information from the terminal device, it stores the user information, the authentication information, and the identification information indicating the device in the memory in association with each other. The aforementioned identification information is used in the aforementioned specific service, The first state is the server described in item 1, in which the identification information is stored in the memory, but the specific service is not provided to the user. (Item 3) The second receiving unit receives the authentication information input to a specific device and specific information stored in the specific device via the communication interface. When the transition unit receives the authentication information and the identification information from the specific device, and the specific device is identical to the device, and the identification information received from the specific device matches the identification information stored in the memory, the transition unit transitions the state of the server from the first state to the second state. The server according to item 2, wherein if the specific information received from the specific device does not match the identification information stored in the memory, the server's state does not transition from the first state to the second state. (Item 4) The second receiving unit receives, via the communication interface, the authentication information input to the device and the identification information that identifies the device from the device. The aforementioned server further, When the authentication information and the identification information are received from the device, the second storage control unit stores the user information stored in the memory in association with the authentication information and the identification information received from the device in association with each other in the memory. The first state includes a state in which the identification information is not stored in the memory. The server described in item 1, wherein the second state includes the state in which the identification information is stored in the memory. (Item 5) The notification unit is a server according to any one of items 1 to 4, which uses the user information received from the terminal device to notify the user of the authentication information. (Item 6) The user information includes an email address that the user can use, The notification unit is the server described in item 5, which notifies the user of the authentication information by sending an email containing the authentication information to the recipient indicated by the email address included in the user information. (Item 7) A server according to any one of items 1 to 6, wherein the timing at which the device is transported to the predetermined location and the timing at which the authentication information is notified to the user are different. (Item 8) The aforementioned predetermined communication is via the aforementioned communication interface, screen data corresponding to an instruction reception screen including a button for receiving instructions to provide the device to the user is transmitted to the terminal device, A server according to any one of items 1 to 7, which includes transmitting screen data corresponding to an input screen including an input field for receiving user information to the terminal device when the button is selected by the user. (Item 9) The provision of the device to the user is the server described in any one of items 1 to 8, including the purchase of the device. (Item 10) The server described in any one of items 1 to 8, which includes a service for shipping consumables used by the device to destinations included in the user information. (Item 11) A method for controlling a server, The aforementioned server, Memory and A communication interface for performing communication with the outside world, Equipped with, The control method described above is A first receiving step in which, when a predetermined communication relating to the provision of a device to a user is performed with a terminal device via the communication interface, the device receives user information indicating the user from the terminal device, wherein the device is transported to a predetermined location after the predetermined communication, and the user information is used in a specific service relating to the device, and the first receiving step A storage control step, in which, when user information is received from the terminal device, the user information received from the terminal device and authentication information are stored in the memory in association, wherein the authentication information is notified to the user when the authentication information is stored in the memory, and the storage control step is as follows: After the device has been transported to the predetermined location, if the authentication information notified to the user is input to the device, a second receiving step is performed to receive the authentication information input to the device from the device via the communication interface. When the authentication information is received from the device, a transition step is performed to change the state of the server from a first state in which the specific service using the user information is not provided to the user, to a second state in which the specific service using the user information is provided to the user; A control method comprising: [Explanation of symbols]

[0093] 2, 4: Communication system, 6: Internet, 10: SP server, 12: Network I / F, 30: Control unit, 32: CPU, 34: Memory, 40: Program, 42: Service table, 100: Management server, 112: Network I / F, 130: Control unit, 132: CPU, 134: Memory, 140: Program, 142: Management table, 200: User terminal, 500: External server, 542: External table, 600: Store terminal, AC1: Account information, AK1: Activate key, AT1: Access token, CT1: Cartridge name, DI1: Device information, ET1: External token, LI1: Login information, M I1: Management Identifier, PM1, PM2: Payment Information, PS1, PS2: Personal Information, SI1: Service Information, SN1: Serial Number, SC1: Purchase Screen, SC2: Inquiry Screen, SC3: Account Screen, SC4: First Information Input Screen, SC5: Selection Screen, SC6: Second Information Input Screen, SC7: Confirmation Screen, SC8: Guidance Screen, SC10: Key Confirmation Screen, SC12: Key Input Screen, SC21: Confirmation Screen, SC23: Login Screen, SC24: Selection Screen, SC25: Confirmation Screen, SC30: Confirmation Screen, SC32: Serial Input Screen, BT1: Purchase Button, BT2: OK Button, BT3: Cancel Button, BT4: Register Button

Claims

1. It is a server, Memory and A communication interface for performing communication with the outside world, A first receiving unit that receives user information indicating the user from a terminal device when a predetermined communication relating to the provision of the device to a user is performed with the terminal device via the communication interface, wherein the user information is used in a specific service relating to the device, and the first receiving unit When the predetermined communication is performed, a processing execution unit executes a transport process to transport the device to a predetermined location, A first memory control unit, when the user information is received from the terminal device, stores the user information received from the terminal device and the authentication information in the memory in association with each other. When the authentication information is stored in the memory, a notification unit notifies the user of the authentication information, After the transport process is executed and the notification unit notifies the user of the authentication information, a second receiving unit receives the authentication information input to the device from the device via the communication interface. A transition unit that, when the authentication information is received from the device, transitions the state of the server from a first state in which the specific service using the user information is not provided to the user to a second state in which the specific service using the user information is provided to the user, A server equipped with the following features.

2. When the first memory control unit receives the user information from the terminal device, it stores the user information, the authentication information, and the identification information indicating the device in the memory in association with each other. The aforementioned identification information is used in the aforementioned specific service, The server according to claim 1, wherein the first state is a state in which the identification information is stored in the memory, but the specific service is not provided to the user.

3. The second receiving unit receives, via the communication interface, the authentication information input to the device and the specific information stored in the device for identifying the device. The transition unit, upon receiving the authentication information and the identification information from the device, and when the identification information matches the identification information stored in the memory, transitions the state of the server from the first state to the second state. The server according to claim 2, wherein if the specific information received from the device does not match the identification information stored in the memory, the state of the server does not transition from the first state to the second state.

4. The second receiving unit receives, via the communication interface, the authentication information input to the device and the identification information that identifies the device from the device. The aforementioned server further, When the authentication information and the identification information are received from the device, the second storage control unit stores the user information stored in the memory in association with the authentication information and the identification information received from the device in association with each other in the memory. The first state includes a state in which the identification information is not stored in the memory. The server according to claim 1, wherein the second state includes a state in which the identification information is stored in the memory.

5. The notification unit notifies the user of the authentication information using the user information received from the terminal device, according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The user information includes an email address that the user can use, The server according to claim 5, wherein the notification unit notifies the user of the authentication information by sending an email containing the authentication information to the recipient indicated by the email address included in the user information.

7. The server according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the timing at which the device is transported to the predetermined location and the timing at which the authentication information is notified to the user are different.

8. The aforementioned predetermined communication is via the aforementioned communication interface, screen data corresponding to an instruction reception screen including a button for receiving instructions to provide the device to the user is transmitted to the terminal device, The server according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising transmitting screen data corresponding to an input screen including an input field for receiving user information to the terminal device when the button is selected by the user.

9. The server according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the provision of the device to the user includes the purchase of the device.

10. The server according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the specific service includes a service for shipping consumables used by the device to destinations included in the user information.

11. A method for controlling a server, The aforementioned server, Memory and A communication interface for performing communication with the outside world, Equipped with, The control method described above is A first receiving step in which, when predetermined communication relating to the provision of a device to a user is performed with a terminal device via the communication interface, user information indicating the user is received from the terminal device, wherein the user information is used in a specific service relating to the device, and the first receiving step is as follows: When the predetermined communication is performed, a processing execution unit executes a transport process to transport the device to a predetermined location, When user information is received from the terminal device, a storage control step is performed to store the user information received from the terminal device and authentication information in the memory in association with each other. When the authentication information is stored in the memory, a notification step is made to notify the user of the authentication information. A second receiving step, after the transport process has been executed and the authentication information has been notified to the user in the notification step, is to receive the authentication information input to the device from the device via the communication interface. When the authentication information is received from the device, a transition step is performed to transition the state of the server from a first state in which the specific service using the user information is not provided to the user, to a second state in which the specific service using the user information is provided to the user; A control method comprising:

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